A series of experiments by American researchers found that there is a relationship between feelings of power and our self-perception of height.

According to the research, from Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR), in New York, there is a physical experience that goes with feeling powerful.

Standing tall: Researchers found that the powerful, such as French President Nicolas Sarkozy, may actually feel taller than they are

Professor Jack Goncalo, who led the study, along with Michelle Duguid at Washington University, said the findings now raise a number of questions.

Professor Goncalo said: 'Although a great deal of research has shown that physically imposing individuals are more likely to acquire power, this work is the first to show that the powerful may actually feel taller than they are.